Meta’s annual Connect event, focusing on augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), and the metaverse, is set to take place on September 17th and 18th. This year’s event features a revised format, beginning with Mark Zuckerberg’s keynote on September 17th, followed by a developer keynote the next morning. The event promises significant announcements across several key areas, marking a potentially pivotal year for Meta’s technological advancements.
The most anticipated reveal is Meta’s next-generation smart glasses, codenamed “Hypernova,” featuring a built-in display – a first for the company’s consumer-ready glasses. These glasses, potentially named “Celeste,” will offer limited display functionality, such as notifications and photo previews, and will be controlled via a dedicated wristband using hand gestures. Expected to launch later this year at a price point around $800, these higher-end glasses are projected to have a limited market share. Alongside this, updated Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, featuring improved cameras, longer battery life, and enhanced AI capabilities, are also anticipated.
Another key focus will be on expanding developer access to Meta’s smart glasses platform. This move could significantly broaden the functionality of existing glasses by incorporating third-party apps beyond Meta’s ecosystem. AI will also play a major role, with expected updates to Meta AI features across glasses and apps. This includes potential announcements about new character-driven bots, further development of “superintelligence,” and updates on the Llama models, addressing recent delays and challenges.
Finally, while new Quest headsets aren’t expected, updates on the metaverse are anticipated. This includes progress on Horizon Worlds, particularly concerning AI-powered non-playable characters (NPCs), and further details on third-party VR headsets running Meta’s Horizon OS. The event may also feature updates on Meta’s holographic Codec avatars, potentially offering a less demanding version compatible with current Quest headsets or video call platforms.
